NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The House voted unanimously to support Rep. Jason Powell’s “Made in Tennessee Act”. HB718 will help small businesses by creating a Tennessee brand for non-agricultural products made in the state.

“This is a common-sense proposal that will help promote Tennessee products made in my district and across the state,” said State Rep. Jason Powell (D-Nashville). “The small business owners I talked to during the campaign told me they are struggling to compete with cheap products from China. The Made in Tennessee Act will strengthen and promote the Tennessee brand in our state and across the nation.”

The Made in Tennessee Act authorizes the University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services to use a logo or seal for “Made in Tennessee” products and goods, except for food and agricultural products, that have been processed, fabricated, manufactured or otherwise transformed in Tennessee. The bill builds on the Department of Agriculture’s successful “Pick TN Products” campaign by promoting commerce in Tennessee.

“Tennesseans make some of the best products in the nation,” said Rep. Powell. “The Made in Tennessee brand will make it easier for Tennesseans to support local economic and job growth by supporting locally owned small businesses in our state.”

HB718/SB806 passed the House and Senate unanimously and will go on to Governor Haslam for his signature.